On the first day of ASAP’s Mid-level Providers Exchange Study Tour Programme at Katmandu last week, our participants — experienced nurses and midwives from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh — met an earnest activist from Nepal’s National Women’s Commission: Ms. Mohana Ansari.

Ms. Ansari spoke to our participants about the 10-year old abortion law in Nepal, and women’s persisting challenges. She explained that access to sound health and education was still elusive to the women of Nepal, as it was to the women of the touring countries, India, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

She urged the participants to recognize their roles in helping young women make informed decisions about their families, and their future. Watch Ms. Ansari’s speech in the video below!

Ms. Ansari made a deep impression on our participants, who insisted on taking a break to chat with her. They shared their experiences over tea, and started the day feeling optimistic after being recognized for their efforts in their communities.